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Industrial Relations Advisor Career in South Africa

Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.

OFO Code2021-242304
Trade occupationNo
Green occupationNo
Related qualifications2

Occupation overview

Assists in resolving disputes by advising on workplace relations policies and problems, and representing industrial, commercial, union, employer or other parties in negotiations on rates of pay and conditions of employment.

What does a Industrial Relations Advisor do?

An Industrial Relations Advisor helps organisations, employees, unions and employers manage workplace-relations matters. The role involves interpreting and advising on workplace policies, helping parties address disputes, preparing for negotiations about pay and employment conditions, and representing a party during discussions. Work may also focus on employee relations, conflict resolution or industrial-relations consulting.

Specialisations

Business Advisor Employee RelationsConflict Resolution PractitionerEmployee Relations AdvisorEmployment Relations CoordinatorEmployment Relations OfficerIndustrial Relations AdvisorIndustrial Relations ConsultantIndustrial Relations Officer

How to become a Industrial Relations Advisor in South Africa

  1. Build strong communication, reading and reasoning skills at school, with particular attention to subjects such as English, Business Studies and Economics.
  2. Consider the National Certificate: Labour Relations Practice: Industrial Relation Support (SAQA ID 94078), listed at NQF Level 5 with 121 credits as a direct pathway relevant to this occupation.
  3. For further study, consider the Postgraduate Diploma: Human Resources Management: Industrial Relations (SAQA ID 73025), listed at NQF Level 5 with 249 credits.
  4. Develop practical ability in workplace-policy interpretation, dispute resolution, negotiation and representing different parties fairly.
  5. Confirm current qualification, provider and assessment details with SAQA or an accredited provider before enrolling.

Edupstairs Preparation Guidance

This career suits someone who can remain impartial during workplace disagreements, communicate clearly with employees and employers, and understand how workplace policies affect people. Preparation should include learning about employee relations, negotiation and conflict resolution. The listed qualifications offer relevant pathways, but their current availability and details should be verified with SAQA or an accredited provider.

Useful school subjects

  • English
  • Business Studies
  • Economics
  • History

Skills that may help

  • Negotiation
  • Conflict resolution
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Workplace-policy interpretation
  • Advising and problem-solving
  • Representation and advocacy
  • Impartial listening
  • Relationship management

Related Careers

Data source: Career information is based on South Africa’s Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO) and Edupstairs career guidance. Employer, training and professional requirements may vary and should be confirmed with the relevant organisation.
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